As cyber threats continue to evolve in scale and sophistication, the ECOWAS Commission, in collaboration with the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office, convened a one-day High-Level Briefing on Cyber Diplomacy for the ECOWAS Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) in Abuja.
The meeting brought together ambassadors, technical experts, and regional leaders to consolidate a shared vision: that cyber diplomacy must become a cornerstone of ECOWAS’ external relations and regional security strategy.
Across all interventions, a common message resounded that cybersecurity is a diplomatic issue, and diplomacy is now digital.
This initiative is fully aligned with the ECOWAS Commission’s institutional drive to strengthen digital governance, safeguard regional infrastructure, and promote peace and security in a rapidly digitising world.
Mr. Sédiko Douka, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation on Tuesday said diplomacy is key to defend shared values of security, trust, and cooperation in cyberspace.
Ambassador Musa Nuhu, Chair of the ECOWAS PRC, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the security, trust, and sustainable digital transformation.with a focus on building cyber diplomacy skills, advancing confidence-building measures (CBMs), and diplomacy promotes cross-border cooperation and represents a crucial stride towards fostering a more Cybersecurity Agenda and reaffirmed the commitment of all partners to strengthening regional Cybersecurity.
By embedding cyber diplomacy into regional frameworks, ECOWAS aims to enhance protection for citizens, reduce exposure to cross-border cyber threats, and ensure that digital transformation translates into inclusive, secure development for all.